VPK Lead Teacher
Southern Payroll Solutions·Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Southern Payroll Solutions·Fort Walton Beach, Florida
The VPK Lead Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing state-aligned curriculum to support children's academic, social, and emotional growth. They must maintain a safe classroom environment, document developmental milestones, and collaborate closely with families and colleagues.
VPK Lead Teacher We are seeking an experienced and passionate VPK Lead Teacher to join our early learning team! This role is ideal for an educator who is dedicated to helping children grow academically, socially, emotionally, and physically while preparing them for kindergarten success. As a VPK Lead Teacher, you will deliver a developmentally appropriate curriculum, maintain a safe and engaging classroom, collaborate with families, and model professionalism and leadership within the center.
Position Overview The VPK Lead Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing state-aligned VPK curriculum, conducting assessments, and fostering a nurturing, structured, and stimulating learning environment. This role supports children’s progress across all developmental domains and contributes to a positive and collaborative school culture.
Key Responsibilities Develop weekly lesson plans and implement developmentally appropriate activities that support all areas of early learning.
Use age-appropriate teaching practices to encourage physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development.
Create and maintain a clean, organized, and engaging classroom environment.
Lead activities such as art, music, storytelling, games, and hands-on learning experiences.
Document daily observations, maintain required VPK paperwork, and track developmental milestones.
Communicate regularly with families regarding their child’s progress, routines, and classroom experiences.
Support colleagues by sharing materials, offering constructive feedback, and fostering a collaborative team culture.
Maintain classroom safety standards, report concerns, and uphold child-to-staff ratio requirements.
Participate in classroom preparation, cleaning tasks, and facility upkeep to ensure a safe and welcoming learning environment.
Prepare for and participate in VPK Graduation events.
Minimum 2.5 years of experience in early childhood education.
Experience as a VPK Assistant/Aide prior to leading a VPK classroom.
Experience leading a two-teacher classroom environment.
Ability to mentor and support assistant teachers.
Strong communication, organizational, and time-management skills.
Knowledge of early childhood curriculum practices and classroom implementation.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with professionalism and leadership.
Required Credentials Current CDA, FCCPC, or an Associate/Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (or equivalent).
Completed DCF 40-Hour Training (Parts I & II).
VPK Emergent Literacy course and all required VPK endorsements.
Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
Ability to pass a Level II Background Screening.
10 hours of annual continuing education.
Physical Requirements Able to lift up to 30 lbs, including lifting children as needed.
Ability to stand for extended periods and sit on the floor with children.
Flexible availability within operating hours (Monday–Friday) and occasional events or trainings.
Ability to work a typical full-time schedule (36–40 hours per week preferred).
Full-time employees may be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, which can include: Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan
Paid time off and paid holidays
Childcare discounts
Training reimbursement and professional development opportunities
Employee referral incentives
Teacher appreciation programs
Classroom décor allowances
Career development support and TEACH program sponsorships
Ready to grow with us? Apply today to join our team of passionate educators dedicated to building brighter futures!
Grow With Us Learning Academy is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. We value diversity and strive to maintain a respectful and inclusive work environment for everyone.
Candidates must have at least 2.5 years of early childhood education experience and a CDA, FCCPC, or a degree in Early Childhood Education. Required credentials include DCF 40-Hour Training, VPK Emergent Literacy course, and a Level II Background Screening.
Market context
Florida VPK lead teacher roles are commonly tied to early childhood programs that need educators who can lead a classroom and meet state and center-specific childcare requirements. Competition often centers on candidates with a CDA, an associate degree or higher in education, or a Florida Child Care Professional Certificate, plus prior classroom leadership experience. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform against your credentials, then confirm your certification and leadership experience before applying.
VPK Lead Teacher
Lead Teacher
Assistant Teacher